Diverging Perspectives and Diplomatic Tensions: A Historical Overview of the Biden-Netanyahu Relationship
The relationship between President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been marked by both enduring ties and recurring strains, a complex dynamic that has been tested amidst recent tensions over the Gaza war.
The Roots of a Complicated Alliance
Their acquaintance dates back to Biden's tenure as a young senator and Netanyahu's service as a senior official in Israel's Washington embassy. Despite this familiarity, their ideological differences have often created friction.
During Barack Obama's presidency, when Biden served as vice president, disagreements arose over Israel's settlement-building activities in the West Bank. Netanyahu subsequently opposed Biden's efforts to revive the Iran nuclear deal, which had been scrapped by Donald Trump.
Tensions also flared during Israel's 11-day conflict with Hamas in 2021, when Biden urged Netanyahu to de-escalate. Communication between the leaders was severed for over a month due to Biden's growing frustration over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
The Gaza Conflict: A Watershed Moment
The current escalation in violence has pushed the relationship to a breaking point. Biden has withheld heavy bombs from Israel, warning that artillery and weaponry deliveries would cease if Netanyahu launched an extensive operation in Rafah, a densely populated city in southern Gaza.
Netanyahu has disregarded Biden's warnings, vowing to press forward with the offensive if necessary. Despite their historical ties, their divergent views on the conflict have created an unprecedented strain.
Domestic Pressures and Electoral Perils
Both Biden and Netanyahu face domestic pressures that complicate their positions. Biden has been criticized by young Americans, a crucial voting bloc, and Muslim Americans, who have threatened to withhold their support over the administration's handling of the war.
Netanyahu, on the other hand, is under fire from hardliners within his coalition government to expand the Rafah operation, despite international concerns. He faces a legal trial for corruption charges, and his political survival may hinge on the outcome of the offensive.
The Limits of Leverage: A Diplomatic Impasse
Biden's attempt to influence Netanyahu's actions by withholding weapons has met with skepticism from some experts. They argue that past American presidents have faced similar challenges without success, and that Netanyahu may simply find alternative sources of weaponry.
Furthermore, critics argue that Biden's approach could damage the US-Israel relationship and erode Israel's ability to defend itself.
Proponents of Biden's stance contend that it sends a clear message that the United States will not tolerate disproportionate force against the Palestinians. They believe that suspending weapons deliveries could incentivize Netanyahu to seek a ceasefire and de-escalate the conflict.
The Uncertain Future: A Path Forward
The trajectory of the Biden-Netanyahu relationship remains uncertain. If Netanyahu pushes ahead with the Rafah operation, the US-Israel alliance could face significant strain. If he reaches a deal with Hamas that falls short of their demands, he risks losing the support of his coalition partners.
Biden, too, is facing a delicate balancing act. His handling of the conflict will affect his support among key voting blocs, as well as his standing within his own party.
The ultimate resolution of the conflict will depend on complex geopolitical factors, the domestic pressures on both leaders, and their ability to find common ground amidst profound differences.
